Philip D

exiled corporate real estate professional and RICS member living in the sunshine. all views expressed are my own.

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

You've had a busy day and social media ain't what it used to be, but perhaps you could turn your thoughts to this chap, 15812 Pte HW Billy Disbrey of 11th 'Cambs' Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, missing in action on the #Somme 1st July 1916. Bugles still calling from sad shires...

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

Not expecting this to get much attention, but... today 80 years ago, a blurry photo captures a blonde haired toddler, my aunt, raising a chubby fist in a mock Nazi salute to ridicule a stuffed straw effigy of Hitler, destined to burn amid celebrations that night! #VEDay80 #VEDay

[Philip D @DubrisDisbo]

@BramfordGWP @Taff_Gillingham No - the power of @Taff_Gillingham

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

In my family (and, I know, many, many others) every day since 1st July 1916 has been #RemembranceDay

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

'Very blue eyes'. On #BattleOfBritainDay remembering Old Pharosian P/O Keith Gillman, Hurricane pilot, 32 Sqdn #RAF lost over the Channel some 3 miles south of his home town of #Dover His bereft father sent a description of Keith to the War Office, noting his *very* blue eyes...

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

It's always extraordinarily touching & gratifying when Twitter friends (yes, it's still Twitter!) go out of the way to pay their respects to 'our Billy' 15812 Pte HW Disbrey of 11th Suffolks, MIA 1st July 1916. Perhaps even more so on Easter Sunday, with thoughts of new life...

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

Happy Easter one and all - the traditional pisanki are out in all their glory!

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

Twitter being what it is now, I've not posted my usual round of remembrances this year (tbh I'm not even sure my posts here get seen by anyone anymore!) But to prove Twitter still has good folk, here's a #RemembranceSunday tale for you. Recently @Taff_Gillingham (Short thread..)

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

@GreatWarHuts @khakidevil @ChiefHutBuilder @HorrorBiscuits @RoyalNavy So this year at the Vicarage, we have added a new name to those we remember for their service in defence of our democracy. And, thanks to the kindness, care & generosity of our good friend Taff, we have a small token of Thomas William Disbrey's sacrifice back in the family. END.

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

Your timeline will be awash with everyone's 'take' on the #Somme 1st July 1916. Perhaps, in amongst all that, you might take time this evening to raise a glass in memory of 15812 Pte HW 'Billy' Disbrey and comrades of the 11th 'Cambs' Suffolks who gave their all on this day? #WW1

[Jeremy Banning @jbanningww1]

@dizzernp Also, not wartime related but I found this too which I thought you might like to see. From the Hastings and St Leonards Observer, 26 August 1939

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

Tonight, God has a DJ...

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

He was no stereotype. For those of a certain age and a certain ilk he sent a clear and early message about attitude, politics, fashion, taking a stand - put things I was thinking and feeling about the world around me into words and rhythm like nobody else. Bless you, Terry.

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

A good afternoon's work as @TJRFC Academy reach the last 16 of the National Cup after beating @cantrugby Colts 17 v 34. Always a great game between these friendly and mutually-respecting rivals - this occasion was no exception. #Rugby played in the best traditions of the game.

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

During your busy day today, please call to mind, if you would be so kind, 15812 Private HW 'Billy' Disbrey of 11th 'Cambs' Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, missing in action near LaBoisselle #Somme 1st July 1916 and who has no known grave.

Bugles still calling from sad shires...

[Philip D @DubrisDisbo]

@dizzernp Petril?

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

Now, did I ever mention how my grandad made, by hand, the first large memorial cross at the crater? No? Well, if you’re sitting comfortably, I’ll begin. Once upon a time there was an old man who had left school at 12, but was very skilled with his hands…

[owen edward Moody 🇺🇦 @moodyoe]

My morning ritual for the next 141 days @churchill_alex @GreatWarGroup #LestWeForget

[Alexandra Churchill ✌🏼⭐️⭐️ @churchill_alex]

Starting with Billy @dizzernp 🕯

[The Vicar of Disbrey @dizzernp]

@churchill_alex Quite taken aback to see this, Alex. And tremendously touched. Thanks guys. Today, of all days, it is very much appreciated. @GreatWarGroup @moodyoe